Bobby Kennedy
A Raging Spirit
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4.1 • 102 Ratings
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- $13.99
Publisher Description
In Chris Matthews’s New York Times bestselling portrait of Robert F. Kennedy, “Readers witness the evolution of Kennedy’s soul. Through tragedy after tragedy we find the man humanized” (Associated Press).
With his bestselling biography Jack Kennedy, Chris Matthews profiled of one of America’s most beloved Presidents and the patriotic spirit that defined him. Now, with Bobby Kennedy, Matthews provides “insight into [Bobby’s] spirit and what drove him to greatness” (New York Journal of Books) in his gripping, in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at one of the great figures of the American twentieth century.
Overlooked by his father, and overshadowed by his war-hero brother, Bobby Kennedy was a perpetual underdog. When he had the chance to become a naval officer like his older brother, Bobby turned it down, choosing instead to join the Navy as a common sailor. It was a life-changing experience that led him to connect with voters from all walks of life: young and old, black and white, rich and poor. They were the people who turned out for him in his 1968 campaign. RFK would prove himself to be the rarest of politicians—both a pragmatist who knew how to get the job done and an unwavering idealist who could inspire millions.
Drawing on extensive research and interviews, Matthews pulls back the curtain on the private world of Robert Francis Kennedy. Matthew illuminates the important moments of his life: from his early years and his start in politics, to his crucial role as attorney general in his brother’s administration and, finally, his tragic run for president. This definitive book brings Bobby Kennedy to life like never before.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Matthews, author and host of MSNBC's Hardball, capably narrates the audio edition of his biography of Robert Francis "Bobby" Kennedy, published 50 years after R.F.K.'s assassination. Matthews reveals the young R.F.K. as a man caught in the shadows of his two older brothers. Joe Kennedy Jr., the favored son of his father, who was killed during WWII, and John F. Kennedy, who was a decorated war hero and president of the United States. Matthews does an excellent job of showing the evolution of R.F.K as an up-and-coming politician from a prominent family who manages, through family tragedies and political tribulations, to mature into a man with deep convictions. Those unfamiliar with Matthews's television persona may find his hoarse voice and fast, clipped pacing off-putting, and the occasional oddly placed pause in the middle of a sentence gives his reading an unusual cadence, but his enthusiasm and admiration for his subject easily grab the attention of listeners. Matthews's presentation is clear enough to satisfy his fans, as well as listeners looking for a general R.F.K. biography. A Simon & Schuster hardcover.
Customer Reviews
Always do what you are afraid to do
Someone people hope that someone will do something about a particular issue…..others actually do something about a particular issue….Robert Kennedy actually attempted to do something about it….whatever the issue.
Realistic, compassionate, beautiful
Chris Matthews is a brilliant writer, especially in articulating the essence of the remarkable Robert Kennedy. I appreciated learning of the family background and Bobby’s struggle with the family patriarch. The description of backroom politics of that era was honest, even when not necessarily pretty. I also appreciated that the gory details of Jack, Martin and Bobby’s deaths were left unsaid. Finally, having been a young adult in that political period, I took a trip down memory lane but also learned so much that I didn’t remember or had never known. Thanks, Chris, for a beautiful, touching portrait of Robert Kennedy.
Phenomenal Read
An easy, phenomenal read about Robert Kennedy. Great insight on his role in helping Jack achieve the heights of his political career, as well as a great deal of information on Bobby's political career.